NASCAR

Put your hands up for Detroit

Time for a pick me up

Things are looking glum in the city of Detroit after General Motors declared bankruptcy, putting another major dent in the American car industry. But fear not, Detroiters! Sure, your main industry is struggling and you're in constant fear of possible layoffs. But Detroit, you have sports to keep you going! So forget the auto woes and check out a few things that still keep the Motor City running.-- Jenny Reisinger Cohen

Matthew Stafford

Hey Lions! You just scored a fancy new QB! Good for you! Sure, the Lions had to lose every game they played last season to secure the No. 1 draft pick, but at least they're No. 1 in something, right? And since Ford isn't declaring bankruptcy, Lions owner William Clay Ford doesn't have to worry about losing money in his family's stock, which will give him time to focus on winning at Ford Field.

Dave Bing

The Pistons may be on the golf course right now, but one of their former stars is shining as the leader of the city. Dave Bing was sworn in as Detroit's mayor in early May and expectations are high that he'll be much better than predecessor Kwame Kilpatrick, who had to resign in disgrace last year.

NASCAR drivers

At this weekend's Sprint Cup race in Dover, the top two drivers  winner Jimmie Johnson and runner up Tony Stewart  drove to the checkered flag in Chevrolets. In fact, the top 14 cars in the race were all American. Who said Detroit was struggling to build a successful car?

Detroit Tigers

Nothing is more summer than peanuts and beer at a baseball game. It also helps if the baseball team in question is doing well and the Detroit Tigers are definitely doing that. After major struggles in 2008, the Tigers are now at the top of the AL Central and proving to be another jewel in owner Mike Ilitch's crown. (Ilitch's Red Wings are in the Stanley Cup finals.)

Detroit Red Wings

Sure, it's usually assumed the Wings are going to make to the Stanley Cup finals, if not win the trophy, but that doesn't make it any less magical for fans. And there's nothing that can pull a city together more than a championship sports team. Plus, it's a pretty amazing sight to see a million-plus residents lining in the streets of Detroit decked out in red and white for a Cup parade.